Relais Country House

Evenings on the rooftop solarium were a highlight, with a magical view of the Vesuv. Some rooms may not have a mountain view, but the rooftop makes up for it. The restaurant serves tasty food in a relaxed atmosphere, and the staff really cared about making our stay go well. The hotel is in a quiet spot with safe parking and comfortable rooms. It’s an easy walk to the main entrance of the Pompeji archaeological park, and buses to the mountain are available nearby. A perfect base for visiting the park.

The heat was the one bad part of our three days in Pompeii. The hotel and its fantastic food helped lift our mood, though. There’s free parking just outside, with signs warning people not to leave things in their cars. The lot doesn’t have its own security, which I don’t think many hotel lots do. The building has lovely design details inspired by ancient Rome, and the rooms are named after Roman deities. Our room was spacious and peaceful, with a comfortable bed, air conditioning, and a sumptuous bathroom. Breakfast was a buffet. I’d guess the sweet and savoury buns were made in their own kitchen. The restaurant has a small menu, but the food tasted fantastic. Sabrina, the owner (?) was sociable and gave us great advice to save the Villa Misteri in the archaeological park for later. It’s very close to the accommodation, and that tip was much appreciated after half a day in the Pompeii heat. Paolo was also always ready to help or offer advice. When the waiter, Marco (?), was running behind, Paolo stepped in. Marco was nice and helpful too. The wonderful lady serving breakfast in the morning was unforgettable. Everyone we met was fantastic.

The manager told us to move our car from the street in front of the hotel-restaurant to its private parking lot, saying it was safe and had cameras. We ate lunch on the patio and were there for about an hour and a half. When we came back, someone had smashed the windows and stolen everything: six suitcases and backpacks. We’d only just arrived and were on our way to Sorrento, stopping for lunch. I told the manager right away, but he and the staff didn’t move. I ran to the exit on the other street and asked a security person by the railroad tracks if he’d seen anyone. He came to help and gave us the police number. Later, a member of staff came out, looked at what had happened, and offered us water or use of the bathroom. The police took a long time to arrive. They said there was camera footage and, after three hours, told us they had the license plate of the car that took our things. They were probably still looking into it, but we haven’t heard from them. When I asked the manager about the hotel-restaurant’s responsibility for what happened in its private lot, he said he’d spoken to the owner and they had no responsibility. So why call it private parking? They have a camera up, but say they’re not responsible and saw nothing. If you’re going to Pompei, think about that before staying or eating here.

Paulo and the Relais staff made us feel very welcome. Our room was impeccably clean and well equipped, and the views of Mt. VESUVIUS were spectacular. We enjoyed wine on the beautiful rooftop terrace, looking out over the city and Mt VESUVIUS. There’s free parking on site, and the attached restaurant is highly recommended for its delicious food and cocktails. The Pompeii ruins are within walking distance, which makes the location convenient. We’d definitely stay at Relais country house again.